SAT Malawi

Today, SAT Malawi Youth Hub members participated in a dynamic mentorship session focusing on two impactful areas: linking SRHR with climate change and mastering the art of applying for conferences, scholarships, and other exciting opportunities.

During the session, the youth hub members got a deep understanding of how climate change impacts the health sector, including SRHR. They explored how disruptions in services, damage to health facilities, and impassable roads due to climate change can lead to increased teenage pregnancies, s*xual gender-based violence, and challenges in menstrual hygiene management.

Engaging group discussions followed, where our young leaders brainstormed innovative ways to integrate climate change issues into SRHR programming, policies, strategies, and practices.

youth hub members gained valuable skills and techniques for navigating the world of online opportunities. In today’s digital age, many opportunities are online-based, yet few young people have the know-how to effectively approach them. This session, facilitated by Youth Hub alumni Godfrey Malongo and Malango Kayira, provided essential tips for crafting successful applications.

What a productive day of learning and leadership!

Expression of Interest: Review of Community Social Audit in Break Free Programme

Deadline: 5 July 2024

SRHR Africa Trust is seeking a consultant to review our social audit activities on SRHR services, Teenage Pregnancy, and Child Marriage. If you have expertise in public health and social audits, apply now!

Qualifications: Master’s in Public Health/Global Health/Development Studies + 5 years’ SRHR experience.

Submit your proposals to [email protected].

For more details, click here: https://www.srhrafricatrust.org/tenders-vacancies/

We're happy to share some fantastic news from the 9th African Population Conference, a dynamic event brimming with insightful discussions and unparalleled networking opportunities! This remarkable conference focuses on Africa's immense Human Capital potential for Sustainable Development, bringing together a diverse array of professionals from across the continent.

Our very own SAT Malawi Youth Officer from the Break Free Programme, Foster Mafiala, proudly represented us during Malawi Day at the 9th APC Conference 2024, held at BICC in Malawi. Hosted by the Union of African Population Studies (UAPS), this conference is a cornerstone for shaping Africa's future.

The theme for Malawi Day was: "Youth Empowerment for Malawi's Transformation Towards an Inclusively Wealthy and Self-Reliant Nation." Foster Mafiala's participation highlighted the critical role of youth in driving this transformation.

Stay tuned as we continue to explore and harness Africa's incredible potential for a brighter, more sustainable future!

Hey, YouthWyzers! You asked about childbirth options for young people, and our expert, Patricia Yosiya, Nursing Officer at Mangochi District Hospital Malawi, shared some valuable insights.

Young people have similar childbirth options to adults, such as vaginal birth, cesarean section, and pain relief methods. However, they may encounter unique considerations and challenges. Here's how they can make informed birth plan decisions:

1. Access to Information:
Young people need reliable information about childbirth from trusted sources like healthcare providers, classes, online resources, or maternal health organizations.

2. Prenatal Care:
Young people need reliable information about childbirth from trusted sources like healthcare providers, classes, online resources, or maternal health organizations.

3. Regular prenatal care is vital for monitoring both the mother's and baby's health. During these visits, young people can discuss their birth plan options, ask questions, and share their preferences with their healthcare provider.

4. Support Systems:
Young people may benefit from additional support from family, friends, or partners. Having a supportive network can help them navigate the complexities of childbirth and make informed decisions.

4. Birth Plan Considerations:
A birth plan is a document that outlines preferences for labor, delivery, and postnatal care. Young people should consider factors such as:
• Preferred childbirth method (vaginal birth or cesarean section).
• Pain relief options (e.g., epidural, natural pain relief techniques).
• Labor and delivery environment (e.g., hospital, birthing center, or home birth).
• Post-birth care (e.g., breastfeeding support, rooming-in).

6. Resources for Young Parents:
Young people may benefit from additional resources, such as support groups for young parents, counseling, and educational programs that focus on parenting skills and healthy practices.

In summary, although young people share childbirth options with adults, making informed decisions involves accessing information, regular prenatal care, supportive networks, open communication with healthcare providers, and a well-thought-out birth plan. Considering these factors helps young people make childbirth choices that suit their preferences and circumstances.

Stay tuned for more expert responses! Keep those questions rolling in! Let's keep the conversation going!

At SRHR Africa Trust (SAT), we focus on empowering adolescents and young people across Africa. We are an African indigenous NGO dedicated to supporting adolescents, young people, and those who support them in improving health, agency, and opportunities. We work tirelessly across Africa and beyond to create a brighter future for all.

We believe in engaging with young people on their terms, which is why we created YouthWyze, our digital communication engine. Through YouthWyze, we interact with young people to discuss their lives, their health, and their futures. We connect them to health education, experts, peers, and health services across platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and our own app.

YouthWyze also gives young people a voice. Through surveys and interactive content, they can share their thoughts and feedback, helping us improve health services and strengthen health systems. Our community- and youth-led monitoring approach ensures that the voices of the youth are heard and valued.

Join us as we continue to empower young people and create a more connected, healthier Africa. Connect with us on our platforms and be part of the change!

YouthWyze Malawi Takes the Stage at Nzeru Zathu Youth Learning Summit!
YouthWyze Malawi had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Nzeru Zathu Youth Learning Summit, organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports in collaboration with USAID/Malawi, Youth Excel/IREX, Youth Landscape, and Learning Platform.

The summit, held on April 16th and 17th, 2024, at the prestigious Bingu International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe, provided a dynamic platform for cross-sectoral youth actors to come together, exchange insights, and showcase innovative practices in youth engagement and development.

At the event, YouthWyze Malawi had the chance to showcase our projects, activities, and achievements through dedicated tables. It was an amazing opportunity to engage with a diverse audience, including youth, government officials, NGOs, and development partners.

We were proud to highlight the impact of our work in empowering young people across various sectors and share our commitment to youth development and empowerment.

A huge thank you to the organisers for inviting us to be a part of this inspiring summit, and to everyone who stopped by our booth to learn more about YouthWyze Malawi.

Stay tuned for more updates on our upcoming initiatives and events. Let's keep empowering youth and creating positive change!

You're invited to an online engagement session titled "Inside View of Sexual Reproductive Health, Policy, and Human Rights," organized by the College of Medicine Youth and Development Society (COMYODS).

Taking place this Saturday, March 23, 2024, from 1 PM to 4 PM, this session promises valuable insights and discussions.

To attend, please register by contacting [email protected] or calling 0881612019.

Your participation is crucial as we delve into topics shaping our community.

We've got some super exciting news to share! Say hello to the amazing Dr. Chikwe Mwansa, a Medical Doctor from Zambia and today he is dishing out some serious insights with us.

Get ready to unmask the world of Prostate Cancer: A Simple Guide to Awareness and Prevention.

Prostate cancer, a silent threat to men's health, deserves our attention and understanding. So let's start by breaking down the basics.

User Question: What is Prostate Cancer?

Expert Answer: Prostate cancer is a cancer that begins in the walnut-shaped gland beneath the bladder, called the prostate. This gland's job is to make seminal fluid. When cells in the prostate start growing uncontrollably, prostate cancer can develop.

Causes and Risk Factors: The exact cause is uncertain, but some factors increase the risk of you being diagnosed with prostate cancer. Age, family history, and ethnicity all play a role. Men over 50, especially those with a family history of prostate cancer, face higher risks. African-American and Caribbean men of African ancestry also have a higher likelihood of developing prostate cancer.

Epidemiology: Prostate cancer is a common global issue, but its occurrence varies in different parts of the world and among different ethnic groups.

Clinical Features: In the early stages, there might be no symptoms, which makes regular check-ups that much more important. As it progresses, symptoms may include trouble urinating, blood in your urine, and pelvic discomfort.

Available Treatment Options: Treatment depends on the cancer stage and health factors. Options include monitoring slow-growing cancers, surgery, radiation, and advanced therapies.

Prevention: While complete prevention isn't guaranteed, a healthy lifestyle lowers your risk. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and routine check-ups empower men in the fight against prostate cancer. Understanding prostate cancer empowers us and our loved ones.

If you or someone you know is at a higher risk, early detection through regular screenings is important. For more information, consult your healthcare professional.

Article by: Dr Chikwe Mwansa, Zambia.

We are halfway through Break Free!, our 5-year program that advocates for the s*xual and reproductive health and rights of young people in 9 African countries. Together with youth groups and local civil society organisations, we form a social movement that combats child marriage and teenage pregnancy. ✊ Moreover, we provide good and safe education: the longer a girl stays in school, the less likely she is to marry before the age of eighteen and have children at a young age.

In the past 2.5 years, we have reached 176,000 young people with information about healthy and equal relationships and preventing unwanted pregnancies. As a result, more and more young people are looking for information about s*xual health and family planning and resources such as STI testing and contraception.

Our evaluation shows that young people face barriers in their search: STI tests and contraceptives are not always available and stigma on premarital s*x prevents health professionals from helping young people. We therefore remain committed to providing suitable facilities and breaking the taboo on s*x.

Several Break Free! countries have fragile contexts, including Sudan, Niger and Mali. As schools and health clinics close, insecurity is increasing and the economy is stalling, the risks of child marriage and teenage pregnancy in these countries are increasing. This makes it all the more crucial that we continue to connect young people with policymakers and institutions, including the African Union, so that they can advocate for their rights. 💪

In the coming years, we will continue our fight for s*xual and reproductive rights. Read more findings and results in our evaluation report 👉 https://lnkd.in/exuBecC7

! *xeducation

We were thrilled to receive an invitation to attend the launch of the new phase of the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) Project, organised by the Malawi Parliament in collaboration with SADC-PF.

The previous phase of the project, funded by Sweden, closed with impressive results in 2023. Following this success, Sida has renewed its commitment to fund another phase, from November 2023 to October 2026.

The objectives of the project includes:

a) Swift onboarding of the National Parliament onto the SRHR Project (2023-2026)
b) Conclusion of signatures for the Project Implementation Agreement
c) Formal launch of the Project before a quorum of MPs, Chairpersons of Committees, and other multi-stakeholders
d) Receipt of solidarity statements from stakeholders involved in the Project
e) Boosting the Project’s momentum and visibility for enhanced institutionalization
f) Discussion of any issues pertinent to the Project's success

We are honoured to be part of the steering committee for this important initiative and look forward to contributing to the advancement of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in Malawi.

SRHR Africa Trust Malawi had the privilege of attending a one-day Stakeholders Engagement Meeting hosted by the Nyale Institute for Sexual and Reproductive Health Governance (Nyale Institute), Family Planning Association of Malawi (FPAM), and the Centre for Human Rights and Rehabilitation (CHRR). This important gathering was all about strengthening coordination and alignment in advancing reproductive justice and ensuring access to safe and legal abortion in our country.

We're proud to be joining forces with such powerhouses in our quest for a healthier, more equitable future!

The one-week countdown has begun! Get ready for our exciting 2024 first edition dropping on March 1st, 2024.

Have questions about Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)? Don't worry, we've got your back!

Drop your burning SRHR questions in our inbox, and our team of experts will provide you with expert answers and guidance. Because your health matters, and we're here to support you every step of the way!

Stay tuned for informative insights and valuable advice from our experts. Take charge of your s*xual health today!

SAT Malawi SAT is a regional NGO supporting community systems for s*xual and reproductive health and rights (SR

At a young age, youth activist Cecelia from Malawi noticed that s*xual health, relationships and rights are hardly talked about in her country. Even when she had questions of her own, there was no one to answer them.

When she later got the chance to learn more about this, she jumped at the chance. Now she shares her knowledge with as many young people as possible! 🤩 "I talk to girls and boys of all ages to provide them with the right information," says Cecelia.

"It's important that they know where to get the right care, but also how to protect themselves from HIV or an unwanted pregnancy." She now sees that more and more people are talking about s*xual health and rights, it is becoming less and less of a taboo.

Cecelia will also be present at the Gender Is My Agenda ( ) pre-summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia this week. This is where women from all over African countries and their allies come together to stand up for their rights and amplify the voices of girls and women. ✊ Cecelia asks governments and civil society organisations to pay attention to accessible s*xuality education for young people. Go Cecelia!

Our Expert Corner feature is back and our experts are standing by to answer your 2024 questions.

Got questions about Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR)? We've got you covered.

Send your burning SRHR questions to our inbox, and our team of professionals will provide expert answers and guidance. Your health matters, and we're here to support you every step of the way!

Stay tuned for informative insights and valuable advice from our experts. Let's empower ourselves with knowledge and take charge of our s*xual health.

SRHR Africa Trust is happy to announce that all our offices across Africa have officially opened and we're ready for 2024.

We are excited to continue providing SRHR education and services to adolescents and young people making a positive impact in the lives of those we serve.

#2024

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO THOSE WHO CELEBRATE, AND HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL

On behalf of all of us at SAT, we wish our friends, supporters, and networks a relaxing break, as you spend the holidays with your loved ones.
We are closing all SAT offices on December 14th and re-opening on 15 January 2024.

See you in the New Year.

SAT Malawi SAT is a regional NGO supporting community systems for s*xual and reproductive health and rights (SR

Let's recognise that abuse affects everyone, regardless of gender. Men can be victims too. During these , let's shed light on the importance of supporting all survivors and creating a world free from violence.

Is the support provided to men sufficient? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

SAT Malawi SAT is a regional NGO supporting community systems for s*xual and reproductive health and rights (SR

Your voice matters! We want to hear your thoughts on ending gender-based violence. Record a short video or share your written thoughts using . Let's amplify the voices of the youth and stand together against violence!

SAT Malawi SAT is a regional NGO supporting community systems for s*xual and reproductive health and rights (SR

SRHR Africa Trust stands in awe of the incredible strength within communities battling HIV. We’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of community-led organisations. They are the heartbeat, connecting individuals to personalised health services, building trust, igniting innovation, and holding providers accountable.

World AIDS Day is more than a day; it's a call to action echoing across the globe. Join us in following the hashtag to witness the unwavering determination, hope, and the global movement committed to ending AIDS.

Together, hand in hand, we can transform the dream of an AIDS-free world into a reality. Let Communities Lead!

You asked, and we're delivering the answers! Our Expert Corner is thrilled to introduce Dr. Billy Khembo, a seasoned Medical Professional expert in Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and Research (SRHRR), diving into the questions you've been waiting to ask. Get ready for an enlightening experience in Part 1, and trust us, you won't want to miss Part 2! Stay tuned for more insights and wisdom coming your way.

Empowering Choices: Birth Control Pills and Sexual In*******se (Q&A Your questions answered!)

User Question: When do you recommend beginning birth control pill use? Do you have to be a certain age to access them and does this differ in various countries?

Expert Answer: Birth control pills are usually recommended when a person becomes s*xually active and wishes to prevent early, unwanted, unplanned pregnancy. The age of when one becomes s*xually active can vary from one person to another, however legally the age of first consent differs in various countries. There is no specific age requirement for using birth control however accessing birth control pills will differ in each country. The best time to start taking birth control pills is the first day of your period or the first Sunday after your period begins. You can also start taking them at any time during your menstrual cycle, but you’ll need to use a backup method of birth control (such as condoms) for the first 7 days.

User Question: I stopped using the birth control pill 3 months ago, but my period has not returned. What causes this? And what treatment/ medication is available for me to help my cycle return to normal?

Expert Answer: It is normal for some people to have irregular or absent periods for a few months after taking birth control pills. This is because the pill suppresses your natural hormones and prevents ovulation. When you stop taking the pills, your body needs some time to adjust, resume its normal cycle and regain natural fertility. Irregular or absent periods are called post-pill amenorrhea, and it usually resolves within 2-6 months. However, if you have not had a period for more than 6 months after stopping the pill, you should seek medical health from a professional health expert in SRH or family planning to rule out any other possible causes, such as pregnancy, and polycystic o***y syndrome (PCOS). Your health expert will prescribe the best treatment recommended for you.


By Dr. Billy Khembo, Medical professional, and expert in Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and Research (SRHRR).

SAT Malawi SAT is a regional NGO supporting community systems for s*xual and reproductive health and rights (SR

Break the silence! This 16 Days of Activism, let's talk about recognising signs of abuse. Abuse can be subtle but understanding the signs is crucial. Here are a few tips:

1. Behavioral Changes: Pay attention to sudden and significant shifts in behaviour, mood, or personality.

2. Physical Signs: Look for unexplained injuries, frequent illnesses, or changes in physical appearance.

3. Isolation: Take note if someone withdraws from friends, family, or activities they once enjoyed.

4. Control and Manipulation: Be wary of controlling behaviours and manipulation tactics, such as isolation from others or constant monitoring.

Let's spread awareness, support survivors, and work towards a world free from abuse!

SAT Malawi SAT is a regional NGO supporting community systems for s*xual and reproductive health and rights (SR

Stand with us during the 16 Days of Activism starting on November 25th!

Did you know? Globally, an estimated 736 million women—nearly one in three—have faced physical and/or s*xual intimate partner violence, non-partner s*xual violence, or both at least once in their lives. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for collective action.

In Sub-Saharan Africa, where we are committed to fostering positive change, the prevalence of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is distressingly high, with 33% of women aged 15–49 having experienced IPV in their lifetime and 20% in the last year alone. These numbers demand our attention and inspire us to work tirelessly toward a safer and more just world for all.

With the theme of this year's UNiTE campaign being "Invest to Prevent Violence Against Women & Girls." Let's invest in education, awareness, and support to break the cycle of violence.

Join us in activities aimed at raising awareness, promoting education, and fostering support networks. Together, we can make a difference!

Register NOW: https://wa.link/proq5z

Share your local health facility experience to enhance healthcare near you. Join the movement for better youth health by following these simple steps!

STEP 1:
Sign up to the YouthWyze App by clicking the link below and selecting your country from the options provided: WhatsApp: https://wa.link/proq5z

STEP 2:
Select “Youth Speak”.

STEP 3:
Choose “Rate a Facility”.

STEP 4:
Answer the questions and hit submit.

Join the vibrant YouthWyze App community today!

SAT Malawi SAT is a regional NGO supporting community systems for s*xual and reproductive health and rights (SR

We know you've got questions, and guess what? We've got answers! Our super cool Expert Corner is here, and in the spotlight is the amazing Dr Nyasha Manyeruke, a Medical Doctor, ready to tackle some of the burning questions you've been itching to ask. This is just Part 1, and we promise you'll be hooked! Stay tuned for more. Let's get into the Answers!

Understanding the Relationship Between Family Planning Methods and the Menstrual Cycle!

User Question: How have we moved from ancient methods to tackle today's modern Family Planning Methods challenges?
Expert Answer: Family Planning has always been one of mankind’s greatest challenges. The first known family planning method used amongst cavemen and women was ‘Coitus Interruptus’, a fancy Latin scientific term, which is more casually referred in our modern times as ‘the pull-out method.’ Highly unpredictable, inefficient, inconsistent and carries a high risk of transmission of STIs and HIV. With time a seemingly more effective yet equally as unpredictable and unreliable arose- ‘Menstrual Tracking.’

User Question: How does Menstrual Tracking work?
Expert Answer: Menstrual tracking is a method that uses recordings and estimations of the menstrual cycle in order to attempt to predict the ovulation(fertile) days and avoid s*x during these days. Ancient Romanian women were known to take head of bodily temperature changes around the ovulation(fertile) time, the changes in vaginal secretions and even shifts in mood and temperament. This method is still quite popular today, especially among couples that are attempting to conceive and become pregnant. It is highly not recommended in pregnancy prevention, due to the unpredictability and variability of the ovulation(fertile) days in adolescents and early childhood. In summary, all these methods are highly unpredictable, inefficient and inconsistent in pregnancy prevention and family planning.

By Dr. Nyasha Manyeruke, Medical Doctor

SAT Malawi SAT is a regional NGO supporting community systems for s*xual and reproductive health and rights (SR